Mosquitoes in Bryan/College Station, TX and West Nile Virus
What is West Nile Virus?
According to the CDC, WNV is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental U.S. Cases of the virus occur during mosquito season, which begins in the summer and continues through the fall. Older people and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk of contracting WNV. This infectious disease first appeared in the U.S. in 1999.
Mosquitoes are attracted to and breed in environments with standing, stagnant water. Common breeding environments include gutters, dog bowls, bird baths and containers.
How Does West Nile Virus Spread to Humans?
West Nile Virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite birds already infected with WNV.
Horses and other mammals can also be infected by a mosquito bite. However, they cannot spread the disease to humans. WNV cannot spread from contact (including touching and kissing) with a person who is infected by the disease.
Additionally, if you have had the disease, regardless of whether or not you had symptoms, you probably won’t get it again.
What are the Symptoms of West Nile Virus?
According to the CDC, most people (8 out of 10) infected with WNV will not develop any symptoms. Symptoms of West Nile Virus include the following:
- headache
- fever
- body aches
- joint pains
- nausea
- fatigue
In less than one percent, the virus affects the nervous system, which can lead to more serious illness that can cause the following:
- neck stiffness
- disorientation
- tremors
- convulsions
- paralysis
- death
What are the Treatment Options for West Nile Virus?
There are currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatments available for West Nile Virus infection. However, over-the-counter pain relievers are recommended to reduce fever and relieve some symptoms.
In severe cases, patients often require hospitalization to receive supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids, pain mediation and nursing care.
How Can I Protect Myself from West Nile Virus?
The best way to protect you and your family members from WNV and other mosquito-associated diseases is to prevent mosquito bites.
Use the 4D’s
The KBTX article suggests that Brazos County residents use the 4D’s to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:
- DEET All day, Every Day: Whenever outside, use insect repellents, that have the active ingredient DEET or other EPA-registered repellents and always follow label instructions.
- Dress: Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing outside.
- Drain: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace where mosquitoes could lay eggs.
- All Day long: Day, Dusk, and Dawn – Limit your time outdoors, mosquitoes are active any time day or night.
Contact Your Local Mosquito Control Specialists
Mosquitoes in Bryan/College Station, TX have been prevalent this year. If you believe you have a mosquito infestation, contact our mosquito control specialists at City Pest Control today. Our mosquito treatment begins working immediately to reduce the mosquito population in your yard. Our mosquito pest control technicians can also offer long-term solutions to keep these pests from returning.
